Catholic Classrooms

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

A few simple words uttered with sincerity that can actually make all the difference. They can really be magical.

Please.

Thank you.

The weight that each carries is immense; implies so much.

Please: I trust that you hear me. I believe that you care enough to consider what I’m about to say. My faith is such that you can alter something for me. You, to whom I am speaking (or writing), have a power that I am asking to use. The ability to make an important difference in my life is in your hands.

Thank you: You have made a significant difference for me. You cared enough about me to do something important for me. I am so grateful to you. My life is better because of you. The time you gave to me for this mattered—maybe more than you can ever know.

Wow, right?

In 2014 let us all consider how easy it is to spread a little magic and truly make the world a better place.

Monday, January 6, 2014

I've found some great new shows to watch whenever I read the tv guide's yearly "The Best Shows You Aren't Watching" article.

And since I've been invited to guest on a number of radio programs this January to talk about great reading during the winter months, I thought that with a "twist" it was a great way to offer some books definitely worth reading for anyone's budget.

I'll be talking about....

The best historical fiction you may not have read: The Green Coat: A Tale from the Dust Bowl Years by Rosemary McDunn which is just $2.99 on Kindle! Perfect for all ages. Really!

One that I will re-read again this winter is The Story of Peace by Miriam Ezeh. It has been called a book "that should be made into a movie" and rightly so! At just $2.99 it is perfect for mom and teen daughters or grandaughters.

Erin's Ring

Catholic Press Award Winner!

"Presented in a story-within-a-story, Erin's Ring offers an historical novel set within the story of two contemporary teen-age friends from very different kinds of families. Both stories have elements of Catholicism offered as ordinary and important parts of life. The small town setting is appealing and the characters are multi-dimensional. Erin's Ring would appeal to younger teens and older ones looking for light reading."

This is a charming story, beginning with a charming cover and with a good measure of history, contemporary drama, and spirituality between the covers. It is highly readable and can be used effectively as an evangelization tool for young people who would otherwise never open a book that espoused Catholic morals and teachings. Adults, particularly of the Celtic persuasion will enjoy this lighthearted yet meaningful tale as well.